Q: What is a Political Action Committee (PAC)?

A: PAC enables employees or members of groups – such as corporations and professional organizations – to pool their resources and make political contributions to candidates that support issues related to the group.

Q: What is NATAPAC?

A: The National Athletic Trainers Association Political Action Committee (NATAPAC) was established under applicable federal law and has been in operation since 2005. Its only purpose is to make political contributions to officeholders and candidates. Although NATAPAC is crucial to supporting the interests of the athletic training profession, the voluntary contributions of members of the NATA are the only legal source of funds. It is separately incorporated and is managed by its own Board of Directors.

Q: Isn’t the money just being used to buy politicians?

A: No! PACs are simply groups of like-minded individuals who pool their resources to achieve a common goal. The contributions are allocated by the PAC Board, not company officers, and given to candidates whose records indicate that they balance fairness with issues that coincide with our company’s goals and pro-business agenda.

Q: I thought PACs were going to be eliminated?

A: No, PACs remain vital to the political process because they are a legal, legitimate and open method of campaign financing. Even in the current reform debates and after the recent Supreme Court case Citizens United v. FEC, PACs remain unaffected and are seen as the most viable source of contributions to candidates.

Q: Why shouldn’t I just support individual candidates and bypass the PAC?

A: With individual contributions, candidates may not know why you supported them. When a PAC makes a contribution, it sends a strong, collective message that employees have an interest in the company and its customers. There is strength in numbers.

Q: How do the candidates use PAC contributions? Why do they need our support?

A: The cost of running for public office has become increasingly expensive. PAC funds go toward many aspects of successful campaigning, including developing printed materials, purchasing advertising time and providing salaries for campaign staff.

Q: How do I join NATAPAC?

A: Simply fill out a contribution form found on this site and return it either electronically, by fax or by mail.

Q: Is a PAC contribution tax deductible?

A: No. Contributions to this, or any other PAC, are not tax deductible.

Q: What candidates are supported by our PAC?

A: Our PAC is nonpartisan and supports both Democrats and Republicans. Your dollars help support candidates who are sensitive to the issues that affect the athletic training profession.

Q: Who can I contact with further questions about NATAPAC?

A: Amy Callender, NATAPAC Treasurer, is always willing to answer any questions you may have about NATAPAC. She can be reached at amyc@nata.org or 214.637.6282.